Dances with Wolves (soundtrack): History and Key Facts

Dances with Wolves is the soundtrack to the 1990 film Dances with Wolves composed and conducted by John Barry, and performed by the Hollywood Studio Symphony.

Basil Poledouris was originally signed on as composer, based on his work for Lonesome Dove, but left to compose Flight of the Intruder with regular collaborator John Milius. Barry was brought in to replace him; it was his first score in two years since taking a break due to rupturing his esophagus. The score has what he considered his interpretation of what Indian themes would be like. Barry prepared by listening to American Indian music, but did not incorporate it into the score, believing it should be seen through the protagonist's eyes. Barry and director Kevin Costner both envisioned a large and romantic score due to the "feeling of space" in the film.

Barry won the 1991 Academy Award for Best Original Score, and the 1992 Grammy Award for Best Instrumental Composition Written for a Motion Picture or for Television. Barry was also nominated for the 1991 Golden Globe Award for Best Original Score and the 1992 BAFTA Award for Best Film Music.

Source and attribution

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